If you’re looking for amazing day trips from San Jose, California, look no further than these 30 beautiful destinations. In this blog post, we will explore 30 different day trip ideas from San Jose.
Whether you’re looking for a nature-filled adventure or a chance to explore some of California’s most famous landmarks, these best day trips have something for everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect day trip today!
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1. Pinnacles National Park – An escape into the wild!
Choose wilderness whenever possible and take a break from the constant noise and stimulation of technology.
In an age where we are constantly plugged in, spending time in nature can be incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating.
A 90-minute drive from San Jose will transport you to a completely different world. You will step into silence and stillness.
The Pinnacles National Park is a small national park located in the Salinas Valley and is known for its impressive rock formations and caves. One of the best things about this park is its diversity.
You can find everything from stunning desert landscapes to lush green forests in Pinnacles National Park. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the park’s famous namesake – the Pinnacles!
These towering rock formations are a sight to behold, and they make for some great photos. Spend some time sitting beside a beautiful stream located a few miles from the east entrance visitor center.
Then go for a hike. You can choose to do rock climbing or just take out your binoculars and watch beautiful birds all around.
If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the California Condor. Pick an activity that suits your mood. Also, enjoy a picnic under a tree.
I have visited Pinnacles many times and loved being there every time. I love hiking to the Bear Gulch cave on the, you guessed it, Bear Gulch trail.
You can choose a different trail from easy, moderate, and strenuous ones. Also, don’t forget to stop at the visitor center and buy a souvenir for your memories.
A trip to Pinnacles is one of the best day trips from San Jose to refresh in the wilderness.
2. Muir Woods National Monument – One of the best day trips from San Jose, California
Located just an hour and a half from San Jose, Muir Woods National Monument is a must-visit for nature lovers. This beautiful park is home to towering redwoods, and it’s a great place to go for a hike or a picnic.
The grandeur of the redwoods is something that will take your breath away. The tall, large, lush redwood trees soar up into a vivid blue sky.
The branches wave in the wind, and the birds fly across its crown. The woods themselves are so dense – the way the light comes in, it doesn’t shine directly in, it just filters through in pieces.
It’s a different kind of light, and it’s really beautiful. Explore these ancient giants who have stood watch over us since before recorded history began!
The scenery at Muir Woods is simply stunning. With a little sunlight and fresh air to invigorate your soul plus views so breathtaking they’ll make any photographer’s heart skip beats- this spot has it all!
READ MORE: 19 Best North Bay State Parks in the San Francisco Bay Area
Feel the reel below 💖
3. The Monterey Bay Aquarium – An escape into another world!
If you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great option for a day tour.
Deep under the sea, a colorful world exists, and if we get a chance to peep into that world for a day, the excitement knows no bound.
If you visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, you will love watching another world in slow motion through giant glass windows.
One of my favorite exhibits in this aquarium is the 28 feet kelp forest enclosure, which is one of the tallest aquarium exhibits in the whole wide world.
If you want to take a break and relax, then head over to the food area. Sit near a window, order a sandwich and see the boats sailing by.
If you have kids, check out the play area too. Buy a souvenir from the aquarium gift shop. I remember buying a stuffed red octopus that resembles an original Octopus I found in one of the exhibits.
Tip: After exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, head towards Cannery Row and enjoy a delicious dinner at an open-air patio!
You can also listen to a Self-Guided Audio Tour while exploring the historic sites along Cannery Row where John Steinbeck was inspired.
Travel Tip: There are plenty of ways to enjoy a beautiful day in Monterey! Read my Monterey travel guide about the Top things to do in Monterey.
4. Napa Valley and its scenic drives – Enjoy the luxury!
Wine lovers rejoice! Napa Valley has some of the world’s best wines. It is an ideal destination for those who want to tour various vineyards while sampling wines at various tasting rooms.
The scenery is just as amazing as the wine in Napa Valley. Also, go for a scenic drive to enjoy while you sip on some delicious wine.
A drive through the Silverado trail is my favorite. This scenic route winds through the heart of Napa Valley.
You’ll find winding roads that lead through picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. You can also cruise through the back roads of Calistoga and Spring Mountain and visit the 3.4 million-year-old Petrified forest.
Walk among majestic petrified redwood giants and step back in time. You can also choose to explore the back roads of Coombsville AVA (AVA stands for American Viticultural Area), a quick scenic drive.
This is one of the most unexplored regions of the valley where you can enjoy a slower pace and a taste of country life.
Tip: Autumn is the best time to visit the wine country. I especially love seeing the spectacular fall colors in Napa Valley.
Whether it’s for a week, a day, a glass or a meal – when the time is right, experience the Napa Valley Spirit for yourself.
Visit Napa Valley
5. Marin Headlands – A scenic escape!
If you’re looking for a day trip with incredible views, consider exploring Marin Headlands. This area is located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and offers stunning vistas of the Bay Area.
You can explore the area by hiking or cycling, and there are also plenty of places to stop for a picnic lunch.
6. Capitola – A quirky escape!
Capitola is a cheery beach with candy-colored houses. It is the oldest seaside resort town in California.
If you are looking for a picturesque, quaint, and relaxing vacation destination then Capitola village fits just perfectly.
I enjoyed a leisurely walk at the Capitola wharf and witnessed a stunning sunset. I often feel that a long, wandering walk is the best way to imbibe the sights, sounds, and smells around us.
You can go fishing from Capitola Wharf (no fishing permit required when fishing off the pier). Also, look out for the frequent flowers left on the wharf’s railing that add an additional pop of color to the vibrant village scene.
I also loved the beautiful murals sprinkled in and around the Capitola village and the wharf. I love the way murals revitalize public spaces.
You’ll find excellent culinary options in this popular beachfront destination. Also, you can explore New Brighton State Beach, Lighthouse Field State Beach, and Seacliff State Beach.
If you’re lucky you might even catch a local surfing competition. Capitola is large enough to enjoy diverse activities yet small enough that it can be explored on foot.
While there are many beach towns along California’s beautiful coastline, there’s only one Capitola. I love visiting this quaint beach town and I highly recommend it both for a day trip or a weekend trip from the Bay Area.
Interesting fact: On 18 August 1961, residents in the town of Capitola, California, awoke to find sooty shearwaters slamming into their rooftops, and their streets covered with dead birds.
News reports suggested domoic acid poisoning (amnesic shellfish poisoning) as the cause. This incident inspired the iconic Alfred Hitchcock film ‘The Birds’.
7. Almaden Quicksilver County Park – A historical landmark in Northern California!
Are you looking for a day trip that is both fun and educational? Then be sure to visit Almaden Quicksilver County Park.
Located in South San Jose, Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a sprawling park that covers over 4,163 acres and is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, and horseback riding.
Additionally, this popular park features several historical sites, including the remains of the New Almaden mercury mine.
During early spring, the park offers one of the most spectacular wildflower displays in the region. This park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, thanks to its beautiful scenery and abundance of wildlife.
Tip: Choose the Hacienda entrance to the park. It features the iconic New Almaden bell tower and outdoor mining museum in the parking lot of the Hacienda Entrance.
Also, don’t miss seeing St. Anthony Church, located within a minute of walking distance. It is one of the oldest churches in San Jose, and features beautiful architecture.
8. Point Reyes National Seashore – A breathtaking grandeur of nature!
A trip to Point Reyes National Seashore has many layers of beauty. When I saw large herds of tule elk, native to California, basking in the sun on a green valley, it gave me a bucolic feeling.
While walking through the Cypress tree tunnel, a must-see place, on the way to Point Reyes Lighthouse, I felt that I have left the cacophony of the modern world somewhere afar.
I loved the wildness of the Pacific when I spent a day at Drakes Beach. With the beautiful view of the vast expanse of the Pacific ocean from above, Point Reyes National Seashore is a gem.
While walking to Point Reyes Lighthouse, I got to see a gorgeous sunset. The white visitor center sparkled along the way ❤️.
I greeted the twilight with the symphony of the evening wind. This natural sanctuary is a refuge for us mortal souls.
I would highly recommend savoring all the attractions slowly while exploring the bucolic and the wild.
READ MORE: 50 Top Things To Do in Point Reyes, California
Relish an Instagram reel below 💖
9. Half Moon Bay – A top day trip from San Jose, California
I always enjoy a day trip to Half Moon Bay, a small city on the California coast. I think one of the best things about a day trip to Half Moon Bay is that it’s so close, but still feels like an escape.
With all its breathtaking views and activities waiting around every corner, Half Moon Bay is a perfect destination for a day trip from San Jose.
A few of my favorite spots are the Ritz Carlton – a luxurious hotel located right on the coast with free coastal access, Seal Cove Cypress Tree Tunnel in Moss Beach, the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, and Cowell-Purisima Trail for a beautiful hike.
Enjoy a virtual hike at Cowell-Purisma Trail below 💚
READ MORE: 46 Top Things to Do in Half Moon Bay, California.
10. 17 Mile Drive – A best and must-do day trip from San Jose, California
The 17-mile drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world, and it’s a must-visit from San Jose. The drive winds through dramatic coastal cliffs, snow-white beaches, mystical forests, and iconic golf courses.
You’ll get to see some of the most beautiful sights in the area, including the inspiring Lone Cypress, Crocker Grove – home to the largest and oldest Monterey Cypress trees in existence, look at the untouched beauty at Fanshell Beach, Point Joe, and Spanish Bay.
At the end of your drive, take a stroll by the beautiful golf course and the Pacific Ocean at The Lodge – a luxurious Pebble beach resort.
The coastal access is open to the public. Finish your day after dining at one of the restaurants at The Lodge at Pebble Beach.
Tip: Admission to 17-Mile Drive is $10 per vehicle. Check out the 17-mile drive map.
Fun fact: Novelist Robert Louis Stevenson was said to have roamed the hills and dunes that now shape the first five holes at Spyglass Hill.
The stunning scenery was supposedly his inspiration for the book, Treasure Island.
11. Palo Alto – the birthplace of silicon valley
If you want to imbibe some Silicon Valley vibes, then head to Palo Alto and explore its various corners.
Palo Alto is home to some of the biggest tech companies in the world. Visit HP Garage, the birthplace of silicon valley tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined residential street near Stanford University.
The HP Garage stands today as the enduring symbol of innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. You can visit the Stanford University campus and the Cantor Center for Visual Arts.
You will have a great time, believe me.
12. Pacific Grove – the Butterfly town
Pacific Grove, the small town is beautiful all year-long. But the magic carpet or the blooming ice plant that graces Pacific Grove’s shoreline at Perkins Park during the spring makes it one of the perfect destinations for spring break.
Also, from October through February, thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to Pacific Grove, cluster together on pine, cypress, and eucalyptus trees in the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
Due to this unique phenomenon, Pacific Grove is nicknamed Butterfly Town and gives us another reason to visit Pacific Grove during the holiday season.
Another quirky place I like in Pacific Grove is a vibrant butterfly house. You have to see this in person ❤️. I especially enjoy its laid-back vibe – a Xanax for the soul!
Tip: Mark the exact address of the house full of butterfly sculptures and artwork – 📍309 9th St, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
13. Carmel-by-the-Sea – An escape to a beautiful beach town!
Another great option for a day trip from San Jose is Carmel-by-the-Sea, one of America’s Top Beach Towns.
This charming town is known for its art galleries, quaint shops, and world-famous golf courses, giving it a distinctive European vibe.
Exceptional dining, wine-tasting rooms, and boutiques make it an ideal place to relax. You can spend the day exploring or relaxing on Carmel Beach.
If you are in the mood to go for a hike, then take the scenic road starting at 8th Avenue and ending near Martin Way.
It meanders above the bluff overlooking Camel Beach through sculptured Monterey Cypress trees.
Travel Tip: There are plenty of ways to enjoy a beautiful day in Carmel-by-the-Sea! Read my travel guide about the Top things to do in Carmel.
14. Stockton – An offbeat day trip from San Jose, California
Explore Stockton on a day trip from San Jose. Stockton is a city on the San Joaquin River, in California’s Central Valley, the most productive agricultural region of California and one of the most productive in the world.
There’s a lot to see and do in Stockton, California. My favorite is Wat Dhammararam, a Cambodian Buddhist temple in Stockton.
This temple features over 90 colorful and larger-than-life jewel-encrusted statues that celebrate the life and story of the Buddha, in a Cambodian setting.
One thing that I loved the most was the sculptures depicting the scenes which Gautama Buddha witnessed when he was a prince.
I have read about those scenes and realizations of Buddha many times but seeing them in the form of sculptures was remarkable.
Also don’t miss Pixie Woods – a lovely amusement park that is perfect for kids of all ages. Discover Pixie Woods’ enchanted forest and magical pathways and be transformed by a world of imagination and wonder.
If you love doing a picnic in the park, then Louis Park beside Pixie Woods is a perfect option.
15. West Cliff Drive and Natural Bridges State Bridge in Santa Cruz – Oh nature!
If you are not in the mood for a long drive then here is an easy day trip from San Jose. In less than an hour, you can reach West Cliff Drive – a scenic, 3-mile promenade in Santa Cruz.
While walking the path I often stop to take in the refreshing views of the Pacific. Soak up the sun and do some people-watching before heading to the Natural Bridges State Beach.
This park and beach is an excellent vantage point for viewing shorebirds, migrating whales, as well as seals and Sea otters playing offshore.
Further along the beach, public access tidepools offer a glimpse into life beneath the sea, while low tides reveal sea stars, shore crabs, sea anemones, and other colorful ocean life.
The park also includes a large area of coastal scrub and grasslands, with bright native wildflowers in the spring.
Tip: Visit Natural Bridges Monarch Trail from late October and all of November to go for a walk and observe the monarch butterflies which flock here in late autumn and stay here throughout the winter months.
16. Golden Gate Park, San Francisco – A beautiful park in a beautiful city!
If you’re looking for a fun day out in San Francisco, look no further than Golden Gate Park. With plenty of activities to keep you busy, it’s easy to spend a whole day here without getting bored.
To start your day, make your way to the Music Concourse. This beautiful open space is home to a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
You can also find a number of food trucks here, so it’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch. After you’ve eaten, wander over to the California Academy of Sciences.
This world-renowned museum is a must-see for any visitor to San Francisco. It’s home to a variety of exhibits, including an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
Next, head to the Japanese Tea Garden. This stunning garden is one of the most popular attractions in Golden Gate Park, and it’s easy to see why.
With its pagodas, ponds, and koi fish, it’s a true haven of peace and tranquility. Just beside the Japanese Garden is the de Young Museum, San Francisco’s oldest museum.
De Young Museum is a fine arts museum and is perfect for intellectual stimulation, reflection, and contemplation.
Also, go for a walk in their sculpture garden and enjoy a cup of coffee at the de Young Café in their outdoor setting.
There’s plenty to see inside the Golden Gate Park, so make sure you set aside enough time to do it justice. No matter what you choose to do, Golden Gate Park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to San Francisco.
Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not rent a bike and explore the rest of the park? 🙂
Book your tickets for 1. California Academy of Sciences 2. De Young Museum
17. Museums in San Francisco – For enriching day trips!
If you are someone who always seeks to expand her frontier of knowledge then museums are often a nice place to start with.
I love how museums are like a book you can open up and always find new things inside, that inspire and stimulate.
I like getting lost in someone else’s world especially when all my own proposals don’t seem quite as feasible at times 😉.
The various museums in San Francisco with their unparalleled exhibits on art & science alike lure me. I have been to almost all the exciting museums in the city.
I spent delightful days exploring both classic-style museums and new-era immersive exhibits in San Francisco.
So, if you want enriching day trips on any of your weekends, choose any one of the museums below or all and explore. Here are my best picks.
SF MOMA
One of my favorite places to go when I want something different is the San Francisco Museum Of Modern Art, or SFMOMA because they have amazing exhibits featuring the best of modern art!
It makes me think.
I remember visiting the exhibition on the effervescent pop art of Andy Warhol and enjoyed it thoroughly. Book tickets for SF MOMA
Legion of Honor
If you want to explore classical European art, then Legion de Honor Museum is a great place to visit. They have an amazing collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts focussing primarily on art from Europe.
I remember seeing a sculpture of an eye by a Swiss artist and I was awestruck by its detail. I’d definitely recommend Legion of Honor to get a taste of European museums right here in San Francisco.
Book tickets for Legion of Honor.
Exploratorium
The Exploratorium in San Francisco is one of the top 10 science museums in the United States and provides a fertile platform for curious minds.
It encourages everyone to wonder – What? How? Why? Abstract concepts of science are displayed in an easy-to-understand format and are highly interactive. Book tickets for Exploratorium.
Tip: After spending a whole day exploring a museum, if you have some extra time, how about a fun activity?
How about a cable car ride at night 💖 ? Cable cars have come to symbolize San Francisco along with the Golden Gate Bridge.
A cable car ride in San Francisco at night is definitely an experience you won’t forget. The city is lit up and the views are spectacular.
The cars themselves are quite old and rattly, but that only adds to the charm. Make sure to hold on tight though, as these cars can move pretty fast!
Tip: Explore the Exploratorium at night with special Thursday programming (18+)
18. Explore the Presidio of San Francisco and spend a cultural evening in the city
If you want to combine outdoor activities along with indoor ones on your day trip then Presidio in San Francisco is a great option.
This former military base is now a national park, and there’s plenty to see and do there.
One of the highlights of Presidio is the Main Parade Ground, where you’ll find rows of bright red chairs, affectionately called “share chairs”.
It’s a great place to relax with unbeatable Golden Gate Bridge views, and during the warmer months, a great spot for a picnic.
Another popular spot and my favorite in Presidio is the Lovers Lane trail and Wood Line to the right. Wood Line is an iconic work by one of the world’s most renowned artists, Andy Goldsworthy.
Made up of eucalyptus branches sourced from various park projects that required tree removal, Wood Line is more than 1,200 feet in length.
You have to see this outdoor art installation of trees that winds their way through the peaceful eucalyptus forest in person.
This secluded spot is perfect for a romantic stroll. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Walt Disney Family Museum while you’re in Presidio.
This unique museum is dedicated to the life and work of Walt Disney, and it’s a must-see for fans of his movies and cartoons.
Tip: After spending a beautiful day at Presidio, you can catch a show of the San Francisco Ballet or Listen to live music from the San Francisco Symphony at the Davies Symphony Hall.
You can also check for ongoing exhibitions in the city. I remember visiting the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit – a unique experience.
19. Big Sur – An unmissable escape from San Jose!
If you are in the mood for a long drive, then choose Highway 1 and drive to Big Sur, one of the best places for a day trip from San Jose.
Also, this is the best way to experience California’s breathtaking coast. With the Pacific Ocean as a constant companion, a sense of vastness permeates into our being while driving here.
The winding curves will take your breath away with their stunning views. Every turn here is beautiful. You can always choose to pull over at numerous turnouts and take in the amazing views.
One place where you must stop is Bixby Creek Bridge. After all, it is one of the most photographed bridges in California!
If you want to go on a hike, especially after sitting inside the car for long, then head towards the Pfeiffer Falls trail in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
If you don’t feel like hiking, watch the water rush by in the Pfeiffer-Redwood Creek and relish a tasty dinner or afternoon coffee and snack in the Big Sur Lodge.
Perhaps it was one of the best coffee spots on this drive. If it is a sunny day and you enjoy outdoor sitting arrangements with stunning views, Nepenthe is also a great option for a sumptuous lunch.
20. Gilroy – Garlic Capital of the World!
Gilroy is a small town located in Santa Clara County, California. Gilroy is known for its garlic crop and a large garlic festival that takes place every year featuring various garlicky foods such as garlic ice cream, leading to the city’s nickname, the Garlic Capital of the World!
If you’re looking for a fun day trip to do with your family or friends, Gilroy is a great option! Some of the main attractions in Gilroy include Gilroy gardens, Mt. Madonna County Park, Mt. Madonna Center, and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Gilroy Gardens is a garden-themed family theme park. The park has 22 rides and 5 attractions and is perfect for some fun and run for the little ones and the whole family.
Don’t miss Axel Erlandson’s Circus Trees and a train ride through the garden! Mount Madonna Center is a nature preserve and retreat center that offers hiking trails, yoga classes, and other outdoor activities.
After spending a couple of hours in Gilroy Gardens, head towards the Mount Madonna Center – a peaceful haven where you can step back, slow down, contemplate, and get engaged in deeper conversations with members there.
You can also join one of their yoga classes. Please reserve your spot there before going. I loved this center and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple located inside.
I am not a particularly religious person but loved the spiritual and serene atmosphere.
Tip: If you are in the mood to go shopping then visit Gilroy Premium Outlets. It is one of Northern California’s largest outlet centers, where you’ll find impressive savings at more than 145 factory outlet stores.
21. Downtown San Jose – A world apart!
If you are in a mood to explore a town on foot then downtown San Jose is a great place to spend a day. There are plenty of things to see and do here. Explore them all at your pace.
Take a stroll through the Plaza de Cesar Chavez.
It is a popular place to hang out as it is located near museums such as The Tech Interactive and the illustrious San Jose Museum of Art. The park regularly attracts visitors with its musical performances and festivals.
I love the beautiful water fountains, flower beds, and even an open-air theater.
The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose is a must-see place for everyone, whether you are interested in technology or not.
At the heart of silicon valley, where new ideas emerge and lead us and have had such a profound influence on the world, a museum such as this is indeed expected.
All the exhibits here are interesting. Innovations in Health Care and Body Motion are two of my favorite exhibits. This museum entertains, educates, involves, and inspires. Book tickets for The Tech Museum
Also plan to visit the San Jose Museum of Art, located at a walkable distance from the Tech Museum of Innovation.
This premier modern and contemporary art museum in Silicon Valley has inspired me in different ways. I love seeing their well-thought exhibitions, all year round.
Whenever I visit this art museum, I am struck by the hanging colorful glass chandeliers by Dale Chihuly. Also don’t miss the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph located in Downtown San Jose.
Tip: If you are tired after exploring the city head for a delicious dinner in one of the innumerable restaurants in downtown San Jose.
READ MORE: 54 Top Weekend Trips from San Jose, California – A Getaway Guide
22. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
If you’re looking for a beautiful and serene nature escape among South Bay State Parks, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the place for you.
Among all of California’s 280 state parks, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has often been called the “crown jewel of the State Park System.”
Select a sunny day and go for a hike. It offers a wild, majestic landscape laced with 14 meandering trails. If you choose a trail along the shoreline, as I did, you will get to see innumerable seabirds along the way.
The soothing serenity and abundance of natural beauty here will nourish the painter, poet, or photographer in you. If you want to spice up the day with some adventure, then go for scuba diving.
The sea near Point Lobos is considered to be one of the richest underwater habitats in the world.
Don’t miss seeing Whalers Cove, a small cabin built by Chinese fishermen which is now a cultural history museum.
23. Oakland – A gorgeous city!
Oakland is a beautiful city, and it’s definitely worth a day trip from San Jose! There are so many things to see and do in Oakland, you could easily spend an entire day there. Here are some of the highlights.
Lake Merritt and its surroundings are perfect for a leisurely stroll. I often visit Lake Merritt especially around sunset for beautiful sunset photographs.
The reflection of the buildings, trees, and boats look stunning during the golden hour. But that doesn’t mean you have nothing else to do during the day.
Visit the adjacent Bonsai garden and spend some time savoring the beauty and diversity of these tiny plants.
Then visit the Oakland Museum of California to know the history of California and how it has evolved.
It is the best museum on California by far, and you will be humbled and proud to know about how much influence it has had on the world! Don’t forget to check out the museum shop for some pretty cool souvenirs.
After exploring the museum, visit The Cathedral of Christ the Light, a new age church where Jesus Christ is created using digital projections.
Next head to Jack London Square. This is a great spot to take in the views of the Bay Area. You can also wander around the shops and restaurants, or take a boat ride.
24. Berkeley – The world-famous university town near San Jose, California
If you’re looking for a short and fun-filled day-trip destination from San Jose, consider Berkeley, California.
This vibrant city is home to some amazing attractions and is home to arguably the best public university in the world. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Berkeley.
1. Visit the University of California, Berkeley campus. This world-famous university is one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the country. Explore the campus and admire the impressive architecture.
2. Stroll down Telegraph Avenue. This vibrant street is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to people watch and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.
3. Visit the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. This museum is home to a wide variety of art, from ancient sculptures to contemporary works. It’s also home to the world’s largest collection of independent films.
4. Be sure to stop at the Berkeley Rose Garden for some beautiful views of the roses in bloom.
5. Another great option is the 34-acre UC Botanical Garden. It is one of the most diverse landscapes in the world, with over 10,000 types of plants including many rare and endangered species.
25. Computer History Museum and Googleplex in Mountain View – An enriching escape!
Technology is changing the geography of our lives. Since we live in the heart of Silicon Valley, it is interesting to know the long history of technology and its revolutionary impact on the world.
Visit the Computer History Museum in Mountain View and discover stories and exhibits that inform and inspire, or satisfy your curiosity with hands-on activities.
The story of computing is invigorating and is driven by the human passion for tinkering, inventing, and solving difficult problems.
Spend a day here and you will go back home thinking about human ingenuity. Silicon Valley’s innovative tech culture is built up around a belief that Change is Good.
While exploring this museum, I was thinking about the changes brought about by technology to every aspect of our lives.
The pace of change confounds me often. This museum gave me a fertile ground to reflect upon many profound things directly related to our lives.
After exploring the Computer History Museum, head over to Googleplex in Mountain View – the corporate headquarters of Google. Enjoy a cool sculpture garden there before heading back home.
26. Healdsburg – For a taste of wine country in Sonoma County
If you want to plan an incredible wine country day trip in a quaint, yet mighty town then Healdsburg, located at the north end of Sonoma County is matchless.
Open outdoors with stunning natural scenery, delicious food and wine, and warm hospitality here is a true celebration of California life.
Settle in a relaxed atmosphere at any of the vineyards and escape to happiness. I highly recommend La Crema Estate at Sarlee’s Vineyard and Angeline – Martin Ray Vineyards & Winery.
If you are planning a trip here in spring don’t miss seeing the beautiful garden named Richard’s Grove at Sarlee’s Vineyard. Stroll through Healdsburg’s charming downtown district, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Be sure to stop by Healdsburg’s lovely central Plaza, a beautiful public square, which was named by Travel + Leisure Magazine as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Town Squares.”
When people think of wine country, they typically think of Napa Valley. Napa and Sonoma are collectively known as California wine country, but despite being close to each other—only separated by a mountain range—both wine capitals are very different from each other. Sonoma’s wineries are more laid-back, less crowded and commercialized than Napa.
Travel Pulse
27. Davenport, Santa Cruz – One of my favorite day trips from San Jose, California
If you’re looking to slow down a bit then head towards Davenport, California.
Nine miles north of Santa Cruz, Davenport’s coastline is carpeted with mustard fields in spring and includes sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
Locals call this area SlowCoast. Relax at Davenport beach and see unique rock formations, including the “Shark Fin,” at Davenport Cove Beach.
Slip into this relaxing realm below through an Instagram reel 💙
28. Lick Observatory, Mount Hamilton – An escape to a world of starry light and dark!
After your daily work, have you ever looked up and got lost in the beauty of the moon or the immense night sky? I am sure you have.
So, plan a drive to Lick Observatory, which is the world’s first permanently occupied mountain-top observatory.
Come here and get lost in the world of cosmos through its various exhibits. Listen to a short informal talk about Lick history while taking a look at the Great Lick Refractor in the 36-inch telescope dome for free.
Also, don’t forget to take a short walk to the Shane Dome to view the 120-inch Reflector. The Shane reflector is one of the major telescopes used to discover extrasolar planets.
Enjoy a cup of coffee in the adjacent garden and enjoy the view of the Santa Clara Valley from the parking lot at 4,209 feet.
29. Moss Landing State Beach and Salinas – A literary escape!
How can we live without our lives? How will we know it’s us without our past?
John Steinbeck
Remember this beautiful and profound sentence?
This is by John Steinbeck, a winner of the Nobel Prize in literature. Spend a few hours exploring the National Steinbeck Center and I am sure you would love it.
Buy one of his books, the Grapes of Wrath being my favorite, from the museum and head towards Moss Landing State Beach.
In Moss Landing State Beach, relax and feel the sun while reading the book you bought. This is definitely off-beat but the creative indulgence is oh so satisfying!
I love this beach very much because it is easily accessible from the parking lot and is never very crowded. Later, you can also opt for whale watching, one of the must-do activities in Monterey.
Drive to Monterey Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where the boats set sail into the harbor with breathtaking sea views. Book your tickets for Monterey Bay Whale Watching Tour.
Tip: Enjoy delicious Fish & Chips at Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery. 📍 7600 Sandholdt Rd, Moss Landing, CA 95039
30. Steam Train Ride at Roaring Camp Railways – A bit of fun and adventure!
If you are in the mood to do something fun and adventurous, consider a steam train ride at Roaring Camp Railways.
Embark on a steam train and ride through the towering green trees. and see how the light filter through the leaves.
Listen to the sound of the train rolling over the track. Within minutes, you will feel you are far away from the familiar cityscape.
The puffing sound of the train as steam is blown through the stack and the hissing of the air pump will take you away to a world of a bygone era.
After the refreshing ride, explore the adjacent Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for an invigorating hike amid the towering redwood trees. A ride on a steam train ride is fun for a child and adult alike.
Similar Articles from Travel Realizations
Travel Realizations
We live in a world where it’s all too easy to spend our days glued to screens. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with spending time indoors, it’s important to take time to enjoy the great outdoors as well.
A day trip from San Jose is the perfect opportunity to do just that. The sights, smell and sounds of a new place can be so refreshing, and they’re a big part of what makes travel so special.
Whether you’re hiking through the wilderness or exploring a charming town or museum, you’re sure to have a memorable day. So grab your camera and go!
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I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to 30 Best Day Trips from San Jose, California. You may enjoy these other Bay Area and San Francisco travel guides:
- Bay Area’s Best Redwood Hikes: A Comprehensive Guide
- 54 Top Weekend Trips from San Jose, California – A Getaway Guide
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- San Francisco at Night: The Best Things to Do With Family
- Super scenic Cypress Trees and Tunnels near San Francisco
- Discover 80 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in San Francisco
- 100 Best Free Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area
- Beautiful steam train rides near San Francisco!
- Exploratorium in San Francisco – When the Destination is Science!
- San Francisco to Death Valley – A Super Scenic California Road Trip!
- One day in San Francisco Itinerary: For Every Traveler
- Easy Day Trips from San Francisco
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- 50 Top Things To Do in Point Reyes, California
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- 31 Top things to do in Berkeley, California
- 33 Top Things to do and see in Los Gatos, California
- 21 Top things to do in San Ramon, California
- 30 Top things to do in Pleasanton, California, for fun
- 40 Top Things to Do in San Jose – The Ultimate Bucket List
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- 51 Top Things to do in Santa Cruz, California
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Terri
When I would vidir my brothers in San Jose, it was always fun to drive to Santa Cruz and ride the old roller coaster.
Kemkem
20 years living in L. A and l can only check off 7 of these! So many great trips, so little time. My next trip back for a visit, l need to check out a couple more.
Coralie
What a great collection of places to add to my California bucket list! I feel like I only scratched the surface when I visited – you’ve given me so many more ideas for things to see! I definitely want to visit the Lick observatory now!
Linnea
You thought of so many great ones! I used to live in CA, and you’re making me miss all the things to do. I love Carmel-by-the-Sea – one of my favs!